The Valorous is sold in two sizes but I discovered that being fairly tall and slim is not ideal for either. The S/M is not long enough, even with the back extended to the full length. The M/L is long enough but the hip-belt is too large for me and can’t be tightened adequately.
Fiona Russell Recommends
- Side compression
- Zipped side access
- Easy lid detachment
- Weight
- Short length
- No use fabric
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £220 Weight:1640g (S?M) Capacity: 55 litres Materials: 93% recycled nylon, 7% polyester Closure: detachable lid, roll-top Back: Mesh, perimeter metal frame Hipbelt: EVA foam and reinforcing Altion foam padding, adjustable Pockets: internal bladder sleeve, 2 zipped pockets in lid, 2 stretch mesh side and 1 rear, zipped shoulder strap, 2 zipped hipbelt Features: J-shaped side-access zip, ergonomic hip-belt, ventilated shoulder straps, water repellent finish, large lower compartment and removable divider, removable lid, side compression straps, ice axe/trekking pole attachment points, lower loop, brand is B Corp certified and bluesign approved Sizes: S/M, M/L Women’s/Men’s Version: Unisex, 58l URL: https://www.kathmandu.co.uk/ |
Fortunately, the shoulder straps on both packs sit in a comfortable position and there is a sternum strap for extra support, although this feature might not suit women with a larger chest because there is an upper limit to where the strap sits.
The mesh back is comfortable and airy and the shoulder straps and hipbelt feel well-padded. There is a good level of side compression possible and, overall, the pack is nicely weighted and balanced, even when fully loaded. The quality of the fabric is good, however the pack lacks a reinforced base.
There is almost the perfect amount packing volume and plenty of different compartments and pockets. The main compartment can be accessed from the top, as well as a long J-shaped side zip. This makes it easier to find kit in the largest area of the pack.
The lower compartment, where I added a sleeping back and sleeping mat, is roomy and, handily, you can remove the bottom-top compartment divider.
The external mesh pockets are a good size with great stretch, plus there is a lid with an especially large zipped pocket. The clips for detaching and attaching the lid are smooth and easy. There is limited use to the small zipped mesh shoulder strap pocket. The hip-pockets, on the other hand, are excellently roomy.
Other drawbacks include the slightly stiff and sticky top drawcord closure. The pack doesn’t come with a rain cover but the fabric is water-repellent. If you are caught in heavy rain with the lid detached, the wet will ingress.
A nod to the environment includes 93% recycled nylon shell fabric, B Corp certification and bluesign approval.
